Päivi Naskali

Mainstream university pedagogy in feminist perspective

ABSTRACT This article analyses university pedagogy by contrasting mainstream pedagogy and feminist pedagogical thought. The data consist of two textbooks, and we investigate what kinds of teaching, learning and knowledge the textbooks construct and what kinds of student and teacher positions they suggest. The inquiry shows that learning in the textbooks is seen as a strictly defined, hierarchical process and that ideal teaching stresses methods over content. The power of knowledge is not discussed, nor are gender, sexuality and other differences. Academics are seen as professional teachers who master teaching methods, and students are framed as customers. An assumed human sameness, marketisation of education, emphasis on vocational benefit and ‘pathos of the new’ were found to be themes guiding mainstream pedagogy. We suggest that feminist pedagogy can offer an alternative approach, one enabling a critical analysis of the power of knowledge and an awareness of differences among students.

Challenges to the human security of elderly Sámi in Finnish and Swedish Lapland

The indigenous Sámi people inhabit the northern parts of Finland and Sweden. They adhere to a traditional way of life and practice a distinct culture connected to their natural surroundings, forming a unique cultural identity. In this chapter, we look into how the concept of human security applies in assessing the well-being of elderly Sámi in the region. Climate change and developments such as mining and other industrial activities are causing significant socio-environmental changes that affect elderly Sámi. While both positive and negative impacts can be identified, risks pertaining to health and well-being are prevalent. We analyse these risks in light of data collected in Finnish and Swedish Lapland during the years 2012 and 2014. In particular, we examine the concerns and challenges which elderly Sámi face as regards the economy, environment, food and health. In concluding, we offer some recommendations on how the well-being of elderly Sámi can be promoted in response to the prevailing human security challenges.